1. highest frequency

The highest frequency at which device produces audio. The higher the high-frequency response, the clearer and crispier the treble.

22000Hz

Sony MDR-Z1R: 120000Hz

20000Hz

2. lowest frequency

The lowest frequency at which the device produces audio. The lower the low-frequency response, the stronger and juicier the bass.

20Hz

Sony MH1CBLK: 1Hz

10Hz

3. has sound isolation/passive noise reduction

The device sits tightly in place, creating an acoustic seal which reduces background noise and prevents your music from leaking out.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H7

Bowers & Wilkins P7

44% have it

4. weight

10g lighter.

280g

Sony MDR-EX150AP: 3g

290g

5. impedance

Impedance is the device’s electrical resistance to the current being pushed through it. The lower the impedance, the easier it is to get higher volume and requires less power.

20 Ohms

Flips Solo 2 Social: 4 Ohms

22 Ohms

6. sound pressure level

Devices with a higher sound pressure level are generally louder when supplied with any given audio source.

102dB/mW

AKG K553 Pro: 144dB/mW

111dB/mW

7. has a detachable cable

With a detachable cable you can use alternative cables, and if the cable is pulled it will pop out instead of breaking.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H7

Bowers & Wilkins P7

39% have it

8. has stereo speakers

Devices with stereo speakers deliver sound from independent channels on both left and right sides, creating a richer sound and a better experience.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H7

Bowers & Wilkins P7

76% have it

9. can be folded

Folding devices are good for transporting as they take up less space in your bag.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H7

Bowers & Wilkins P7

31% have it

10. Can be used wirelessly

Wireless devices allow users more freedom of movement.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H7

Bowers & Wilkins P7

27% have it

11. has an in-line control panel

There is a control panel on the cable, so you can easily operate the device without having to interact with it.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H7

Bowers & Wilkins P7

47% have it

12. has an over-the-ear form

Comfortable full-size form with earcups that fully enclose your ears. This model is loved for its increased sound isolation and the fact that it won't leak sound to your neighbors. It offers potential for maximum bass and loudness levels.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H7

Bowers & Wilkins P7

39% have it

13. has a tangle free cable

The cable is designed to minimize tangling.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H7

Bowers & Wilkins P7

23% have it

14. driver unit size

The driver unit is the component that produces sound in the device. Bigger drivers are more powerful and can produce better bass.